Pointo And Jadavpur University Join Forces To Electrify Fossil-Fuel Vehicles Such As The HM Ambassador
- By MT Bureau
- May 22, 2025
Pointo, a leading innovator in India's Energy Solution sector, and Jadavpur University (JU) will collaborate to transform fossil fuel-powered Hindustan Ambassador cars into fully electric vehicles (EVs). The landmark project goes beyond retrofitment and underlines sustainable as well as eco-friendly transport.
As part of the endeavour, Pointo will leverage its ability to create a circular economy in the battery industry by providing affordable and scalable energy solution models and vast supply and distribution network.
Showcasing batteries as power sources and enablers of transformation, converting decades-old diesel-run vehicles into emission-free electric cars, the endeavour with Pointo and Jadavpur University as able partners, will involve detailed design and engineering exercise to successfully retrofit Hindustan Ambassador models - Classic, Grand, Avigo and Encore with electric propulsion system.
The finer details of it will include vehicle diagnostics, electric motor and powertrain integration, smart battery placement, chassis and suspension adaptations and embedding of advanced BMS (Battery Management System). There will be telemetry software a part too.
Attention will be on achieving full regulatory compliance for pan-India deployment as well. The retrofitted Ambassadors will undergo rigorous testing to meet the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), receive emission-free certification, and secure approvals from authorities like the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
This project would address a deeper societal and environmental challenge. For example, the iconic yellow Ambassador taxis, still operating in parts of Kolkata and other cities, powered by ageing diesel engines, are claimed to contribute significantly to urban air pollution and declining public health standards.
Transforming them into EVs would remove the pollution stigma attached to them through this initiative that keeps into view the need to arrest air quality degradation at its source and provide a replicable, scalable solution for thousands of such vehicles across Indian cities.
While the project begins in West Bengal, its implications are national, mentioned a source aware of the development.
“This partnership with Jadavpur University marks a major step towards transforming India’s Clean Energy Storage and Power legacy,” said Riki Biswas, CEO and Director, Pointo. “With our expertise in battery technology and JU’s engineering excellence, we aim to not just retrofit vehicles but build a platform where the dependency on fossil fuels is reduced and batteries as a source of power and storage are promoted. This project has the potential to reduce emissions at scale, create livelihood opportunities, and preserve automotive heritage while aligning with our national electric mobility goals,” he added.
Image Credit: Jan J George
Honda Cars India Launches Elevate ADV Edition At INR 1.52 Million As New Flagship Trim
- By MT Bureau
- November 03, 2025
Honda Cars India (HCIL) has introduced the Elevate ADV Edition at prices starting INR 1.529 for the MT single tone edition and INR 1.66 million for the CVT dual tone edition.
The new trim is positioned as the new flagship grade in the popular Honda Elevate SUV line-up.
The ADV Edition features a number of external upgrades, including a new Alpha-Bold Plus grille with black surround and a hood decal accented with orange highlights. The overall exterior appeal is enhanced by black roof rails, ORVMs (Outside Rear-View Mirrors) and window beltline moulding. Distinctive touches include ADV emblems on the fenders and black alloy wheels with orange accents.
Inside, the cabin features a black interior theme with vibrant orange accent detailing. A standout feature is the ADV Terrain Pattern Backlit Illuminated Instrument Panel Garnish, described as creating a futuristic style. Customers can also opt for a 360degree surround view camera.
The Elevate ADV Edition is powered by the 1.5-L i-VTEC petrol engine, available with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed CVT automatic transmission with Paddle Shifters.
Safety features include Honda Sensing, the advanced driver-assist system (ADAS), which incorporates Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control. The vehicle is built with the ACE Body Structure and includes six airbags and a LaneWatch camera.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing and Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “The Honda Elevate has received a positive response from customers across the country due to bold looks and highly engaging performance. With the introduction of the Elevate ADV Edition as the top trim, we aim to offer more choices to customers with different preferences. This new model features an even bolder and sharper design, blending style with Honda’s trusted quality and refinement, making it the perfect companion for every journey. We are excited to welcome more customers to experience this exciting new addition.”
Honda Cars India Reports 10,518 Unit Wholesales In October 2025
- By MT Bureau
- November 01, 2025
Honda Cars India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has reported total wholesales of 10,518 units for October 2025.
The company recorded domestic sales of 6,394 units for the month, which marks a 15.3 percent growth as compared to 5,546 units last year.
Honda also exported 4,124 units in October 2025. In comparison, exports in October 2024 stood at 4,534 units. The company noted the strong performance of the Honda Amaze as a key driver of the growth.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “The festive sales and GST 2.0 announcement fuelled robust demand across our line-up of City, Amaze and Elevate during October. The Amaze being the only car under 10 lakh price segment to offer ADAS safety and smooth CVT performance has been strongly appreciated by consumers registering strong sales growth.”
JSW MG Motor India Reports 9% Decline In October Sales
- By MT Bureau
- November 01, 2025
JSW MG Motor India has reported a decline of 9 percent in it wholesales for October 2025, with sales of 6,397 units, as compared to 7,045 units sold for same period last year.
On the other hand, the company reported a 20 percent YoY increase in wholesales during the August–October 2025 festive period.
The MG SELECT model retained its second position in the luxury electric vehicle (EV) segment, registering an impressive 62 percent MoM growth.
Hyundai Motor India Reports 53,792 Wholesales In October
- By MT Bureau
- November 01, 2025
Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has achieved total monthly sales of 69,894 units in October 2025. The volume includes 53,792 units in domestic sales.
The company stated its performance was driven by the domestic market, and it also bolstered its position as a global manufacturing hub, with exports touching 16,102 units, marking an 11 percent YoY growth.
Furthermore, the Hyundai Creta and Venue SUV duo achieved their second-highest-ever combined monthly sales of 30,119 units.
Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director & Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “October 2025 was a month driven by the festivals of Dussehra, Dhanteras and Diwali, further complimented by the positive impact of GST 2.0 reforms. This provided a significant boost to the Indian automotive industry. At Hyundai Motor India, we witnessed robust market demand and high consumer enthusiasm leading to second highest monthly sales of our formidable SUV duo – the Hyundai Creta and Venue combined, with 30,119 units sold. We expect to accelerate this momentum with the upcoming launch of all-new Hyundai Venue, which is already open for bookings.”
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